This is an illustration of a black, blue and white magpie on a dark grey perch, looking to the right. There are three golden birds flying in the distance. The image contains the words 'From the Magpie's Perch,' which is a career coaching blog.

Career & Strengths Coaching Insights

Curious Magpie’s blog - From the Magpie’s Perch - provides expert advice about CliftonStrengths®, career transitions, negotiation, and leadership—written by career coach and company founder Gretchen Heaton.

Grieving (and Growing) Through Job Loss: A Strengths-Based Guide
Gretchen Heaton Gretchen Heaton

Grieving (and Growing) Through Job Loss: A Strengths-Based Guide

Sudden job loss can leave individuals feeling untethered, anxious, and unsure of what comes next. This post offers 10 research-backed strategies to help professionals process grief, rebuild confidence, and transition into the next chapter with strength. Learn how to reflect on what mattered, honor the loss, reconnect with personal values, and take meaningful steps forward—all while cultivating gratitude, support, and self-compassion. Whether you're facing layoff, reorganization, or career disruption, these tools can help you navigate with resilience and purpose.

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Can You Really “Future-Proof” Your Career? Yes—And It Starts With This Often-Overlooked Strategy
Gretchen Heaton Gretchen Heaton

Can You Really “Future-Proof” Your Career? Yes—And It Starts With This Often-Overlooked Strategy

Worried about automation and the future of work? You’re not alone—recent data shows nearly 40% of Americans fear their job could become obsolete within five years. Drawing on insights from a Fast Company article and futurist Scott Steinberg, this post outlines smart strategies to adapt, including upskilling and emphasizing human strengths. But it also highlights one overlooked key to long-term success: building strong professional relationships. Discover why networking—not endless resume submissions—is your most powerful tool in a changing job market, and how working with a career coach can help you navigate uncertainty, build resilience, and thrive in your career.

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